Max Verstappen fell short of the criteria for obtaining a Category A DMSB Permit Nordschleife (DPN) following a mixed debut at the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS), but is anticipated to receive the licence through a committee ruling. The Formula 1 world champion completed the required 14 race laps in the #980 Cayman alongside Chris Lulham, though his second entry, the #89 Cayman in the SP7 class, was damaged during qualifying and failed to finish a lap, complicating Verstappen’s path to a standard DPN A license.
Committee Decision Expected to Favor Verstappen Despite Technical Setbacks
The DMSB has established the DPN-Committee to evaluate unusual cases like Verstappen’s, where a second classified finish is missing but the car officially started the race. Although Verstappen did not meet the usual requirements for a Category A permit due to the failure of the #89 Cayman to complete a lap, the committee tends to be lenient in such scenarios. Verstappen’s performance was notably free of any sporting infractions and he posted strong lap times in a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS that had restricted power. Various challenging track conditions further demonstrate his adaptability, strengthening his case for license approval.
Verstappen is scheduled to skip Sunday’s races but will return to the NLS on September 27, driving an Emil Frey Ferrari with ambitions of contending for an overall victory.
Falken Motorsports Retains Dominance Amid Battle and Changing Conditions
At the front of the field, Falken Motorsports delivered another commanding performance in the SP9 Pro class. The team’s Michelin-shod Porsche squad maintained an edge over their closest rival, the HRT Ford GT #6 driven by Frank Stippler and Vincent Kolb. Stippler briefly led in the early laps, but Falken’s superior tyre consistency allowed #3 Porsche drivers Julien Andlauer and Joel Sturm to reclaim control before the initial pit stops. Meanwhile, the sister #4 Porsche, driven by Tim Heinemann and Benjamin Leuchter, engaged in intense competition with Stippler for second place.
HRT’s challenge ended abruptly when the Ford GT encountered technical difficulties and retired to the garage after eight laps, handing Falken full command of the race. A sudden rain shower on lap 18 flooded the northern section of the circuit, catching several teams off guard who delayed switching from slicks to wet-weather tyres. This led to multiple incidents in the smaller classes, although the leading cars managed the conditions without damage. The #3 Porsche extended its lead by over a minute, and after Sturm’s switch to wet tyres, the team confidently maintained its advantage to secure Falken’s 13th Porsche victory in the last 15 NLS races. Porsche remains undefeated in the 2025 NLS season.
Verstappen’s NLS Debut and License Outlook
Max Verstappen’s NLS debut has sparked debate about the permit approval process, particularly because he could not secure the second classified result generally needed for the DPN A permit. However, considering that the damaged second car officially started the race and Verstappen’s solid pace without infractions, the committee’s leniency appears likely to grant him the license. This decision is significant for Verstappen’s future participation in endurance events, especially as he plans to return in a competitive Ferrari entry. His involvement elevates the profile of the NLS and underscores the complexities of licensing rules at the Nürburgring.
